Vale student in robotics success

Buy photos » Sam Johnston was part of the University of Warwick’s winning Mobile Robotics team. (s)

A BRIGHT spark from Ashton-under-Hill has scooped a pair of awards at a prestigious robotics competition.

Sam Johnston was part of the University of Warwick's Mobile Robotics team which recently competed at the European RoboCup Rescue Championship.

The eight strong team's tele-operated robot had to navigate through a simulated earthquake disaster area, searching, locating and helping victims who were trapped.

The robot used a series of human detection devices including a web-camera, CO2 sensor and infra-red camera to search for survivors.

The team eventually came away with special awards for Best in Class for Mobility and Best in Class for Manipulation at the four day competition in Germany.

Mechanical engineer Sam said: "We are all delighted to have achieved second place and been handed awards for the Best in Mobility and Best in Manipulation.

"All of us have really enjoyed the project and are immensely proud that we have done so well at a highly fought international event."

The team was backed by WMG academic, Dr Emma Rushforth, and Dr Peter Jones, from the University’s Engineering department, who were equally pleased with the students achievements.

Dr Rushforth added: "It is fantastic that the Warwick Mobile Robotics team have picked up two awards and placed second overall. The competition in Germany is tough but this group developed and built an excellent robot which is deserving of the accolades.

"Companies are increasingly turning to mobile robot design expertise and the eight students have shown what they can do in the field."